Minister of Education, Youth and Sport Hang Chuon Naron has complimented the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) – and its president Hun Many – for the success of this year’s UYFC Soccer League. The league, which began on January 7, wrapped up on February 11.
The Kandal UYFC and Sofina FC teams claimed the men’s and women’s titles, respectively.
“I compliment Hun Many and the UYFC for initiating this Soccer League. Since 2012, it has contributed to the promotion of sports and inspired solidarity and friendship among the young all over the country. Encouraging them to play sports is excellent for their health, and teaches them to avoid drugs and other vices,” said Chuon Naron, as he addressed the closing ceremony.
Sar Sokha, UYFC vice-president in charge of the sixth Soccer League, said that 64 men’s teams and 10 women’s teams took part, a total of almost 1,500 athletes.
The men’s teams were divided into 16 pools, with only the winners of each pool advancing. The women’s competition featured two pools, with the top two teams going through to the semi finals.
In the February 11 men’s finals, the Kandal UYFC team defeated Hanuman of the Ministry of National Defence 2-0 to become champions. On the same day, Sofina FC beat Phnom Penh Crown 1-0 to take the women’s title.
“I am pleased to be invited to attend the closing ceremony of the Soccer League, which was once again successfully organised. Although this is not a professional trophy, the competition was run to the highest standards. I look forward to next year’s league,” said Chuon Naron.
Hun Many offered his appreciation to all participants, both on and off the pitch.
“I especially compliment the team that worked behind the scenes to make the event happen. Organising 112 men’s games and 24 women’s matches in such a short period of time cannot have been easy, but they ensured the league was a success,” he said.
He added that he was impressed with the recent development of the Kingdom’s sporting sector, and the rapid progress of so many individual athletes.
“Many of our sporting stars are now competing for trophies and medals at the regional and international level,” he continued.
He called on all football teams to encourage more of the public in their areas – especially the youth – to participate in sports as much as possible.
“The UYFC strongly believes that youth involvement in sport is crucial for their development. Everyone should play at least one sport. A nationwide increase in organised sports will create a national movement which will build discipline, solidarity, fraternity, dignity and harmony among the Cambodian people,” he added.
